Choose the Right Marking Tools

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Which tool to use when marking fabric can be a complicated topic, so it helps to get advice from the experts. In this article from Threads #185 (June/July 2016), author Carol J. Fresia writes: Patterns are full of marks that are essential matching or stitching guides. To assemble a garment successfully, you need to transfer these marks to the fabric so they are clearly visible, last as long as you need them, and then depart completely when the garment is done. There’s no single tool that works for every textile and every type of mark. It’s important to consider the fabric’s texture, weight, stability (or stretch), color, and care requirements, as well as the mark location and function. I’ve tested tools and techniques to discover the most effective ways to mark a variety of fabric types. You have to balance convenience, accuracy, and removability (or permanence).

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With all the new marking devises, I notice you fail to list a regular old sliver of a bar of soap. Great for marking anything that is washable, dark woolens, corduroy, etc. Just a spritz of water and it is gone. Try it, you will like it, and it will use up those up those little pieces of soap.